Doppelkupplungssysteme

Doppelkupplungssysteme, often referred to as dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs), are a type of automated manual transmission that uses two separate clutches for gear control. This design allows for exceptionally fast and smooth gear changes, as one clutch can be preparing the next gear while the current gear is still engaged. The system essentially combines the efficiency of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic.

The operational principle involves two input shafts, one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears, each connected to its own clutch. When a gear is selected, its corresponding clutch engages. As the vehicle accelerates or decelerates, the transmission control unit anticipates the next gear shift and pre-selects it on the other shaft. When the shift occurs, the disengaging clutch smoothly transfers power to the engaging clutch, minimizing any interruption in torque delivery. This process results in a seamless acceleration and a more engaging driving experience compared to traditional torque converter automatics.

Doppelkupplungssysteme are known for their performance-oriented characteristics and are commonly found in sports cars and performance sedans. They offer good fuel economy due to their mechanical efficiency, similar to manual transmissions. However, they can sometimes exhibit slightly jerky behavior at very low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic, depending on the specific tuning of the system.